Crusaders management insisted the changes were not related to form because Franks, Flynn and Crockett were among the Crusaders' better performers against the Sharks.

It is understood coaches Todd Blackadder and Dave Hewett want to give Laulala more game time to prepare him for when Franks returns from All Blacks duty against England.

Dagg would return at fullback after being rested against the Sharks and Tom Taylor would shift from fullback to centre, replacing Reynold Lee-Lo, who lost out on a place on the bench to New Zealand sevens international Adam Whitelock.

The Crusaders coaching staff have resisted any temptation to shift left wing Nemani Nadolo to centre.

Former All Black Andy Ellis would start at halfback with Willi Heinz on the bench.

All Blacks squad member Luke Whitelock, who was excellent in Brisbane against the Reds, but ineffective against the Sharks, would continue at No 8 with Kieran Read still sidelined with flu.